Orthodontic Treatment

Head Orthodontics - Staff Photos Nov 2018 v2

Learn More About Orthodontic Treatment

Here at Head Orthodontics, we offer a variety of treatments that can cover your needs. While many think of orthodontics as braces, our treatments include Phase 1 Orthodontics (known as early treatment), Phase 2 Orthodontics, Adult Treatment, Invisalign and Retention. With all of these treatment options, we can fulfill the requirements that you expect from any renowned orthodontist and make sure that your experience is satisfactory.  Please read more about our services and reach out with any orthodontic questions.  

What is Orthodontics Dr Head Glen Ellyn IL 1200

Orthodontics

Dr. Head practices orthodontics, a field of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.   As a specialist in orthodontics, Dr. Head completed an advanced education program following dental school to learn the special skills required to manage tooth movement and guide facial development.  Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (known as malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.  

Early Treatment Orthodontics Dr Head Glen Ellyn IL 1200

Early Treatment

Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.  Learn more about the benefits of early orthodontic evaluations, why age 7 is the optimal time for a screen and advantages of interceptive treatment.  READ MORE 

Fun Braces orthodontics Dr Head Glen Ellyn IL 1200

The Phases of Orthodontics

If you are like most of our patients, you have orthodontic questions?  First, how challenging is your case?  Will it be easy to enhance your smile?  Correct a bite problem?  What is two phase orthodontics works and how does that affect my care?  Well, it’s quite simple.  Orthodontics is divided into 2 phases, phase 1 and phase 2.  After your initial consultation, Dr. Head will explain the phases and make recommendations unique to your bite and alignment.  There are certain conditions where Phase 1 is strongly advised, but Dr. Head estimates that over 90% of his consultations do not require phase 1 treatment.  So if you do not require phase 1, congratulations, you have graduated to phase 2!  Read more about the phases and schedule your free consultation with Dr. Head so he can assess your oral health and create a treatment plan.  

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Phase I – Interceptive Treatment – Ages 6 -10

Phase I – early treatment – is a limited orthodontic treatment before all permanent teeth have erupted and may include a palatal expander, distal jet and partial braces. It is used to create space for growth and improve your jaws position. Once you finish and most of the permanent teeth have erupted, you will be ready for Phase II if necessary.

Head Orthodontics - Glen Ellyn IL Braces 2

Phase II –  Braces – Ages 11 and up

Phase II – comprehensive orthodontic treatment – involves full braces when all or most permanent teeth have erupted. It can also include a palatal expander or distal jet. It is what most people commonly view as Orthodontics, where braces or invisible aligners such as Invisalign, are used to straighten and beautify your smile.

Adult orthodontics Dr Head

Adult Treatment

At Head Orthodontics, we offer orthodontics for Adults.  While treatment plans will vary per your current oral health and health history, Dr. Head and the team offer free consultations.  After a careful review of your smile, Dr. Head will provide you options to improve your smile with braces or discreet clear aligners, such as Invisalign. READ MORE   

orthodontics Invisalign Dr Head Glen Ellyn IL 1200

Invisalign (aka clear aligners)

Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are often an attractive treatment option for teens, parents and adults.  To learn more about Invisalign, treatment duration, cost of Invisalign treatment and if Invisalign is right for you, please reach out to Head Orthodontics and schedule your free consultation. READ MORE  

Retainers by Head Orthodontics Glen Ellyn IL 1200

Retention (Last but not least!)

Upon the removal of your braces, we will begin the retention phase of your treatment. You should wear your retainers for 20 hours a day for the first 4 months. After that, you will only wear them at night. Retention is for the rest of your life.  READ MORE